ABS-CBN News

It was July of this year when Team Manila Graphics Studio co-founder and creative director Jowee Alviar, revealed to ABS-CBNnews.com that they are preparing to release clothes and accessories inspired by the feisty senator, who is known for her funny pickup lines.

Two months later, Santiago appeared in Team Manila’s online ads, which were posted on YouTube.

“Technically? (laughs). Well, I’m not going to pay income tax for what I did today so I don’t consider it work,” the senator said of her “modeling stint” in an interview with online magazine Spot.ph during a photo shoot for the Team Manila shirts.

“It’s just, for me, a peek or a small window into another world where everything is new and exciting.”

Asked why she chose to endorse Team Manila, she said: “Well, at first they made me an offer that I could hardly refuse because they said part of the profits could go to the charity of my choice.

“But now that I have become acquainted with them, I have discovered that they will be the charity of my choice because apparently they are living on a very thin budget. They’re just starting up so I just want to help them.”

Team Manila’s Santiago-inspired items are part of the brand’s “online exclusives,” which are set to be released next month.

Known for its modern take on Filipino icons, Team Manila has done a collection of apparel and accessories inspired by national hero Jose Rizal.

It will soon release a line inspired by former action star and Senator Ramon Revilla Sr.